LEWISTON – Maine Public Broadcasting System is seeking young artists and writers to participate in the ninth annual “Reading Rainbow” Young Writers and Illustrators Contest.

The national contest is open to children in kindergarten through third grade who write and illustrate their own stories. Stories should include five original color illustrations. Entries will be judged separately by grade level and must be received at Maine PBS by Friday, March 28.

Each child who submits an entry ill receive a certificate of achievement signed by “Reading Rainbow” host LeVar Burton and a chance to win several other prizes.

First place winning entries from each grade will be entered into the national competition.

Contest rules and entry forms can be downloaded at www.mpbc.org, or by calling the Maine PBS Audiences Services Department at (800) 884-1717.